Cincinnati Police Department Faces Federal Lawsuit as Former Officers Allege Race and Gender Bias
How does a lifelong commitment to law enforcement devolve into a legal battle over alleged discrimination and favoritism? That question now looms large in Cincinnati, where four veteran police officers have filed a federal lawsuit accusing the city’s police leadership of sidelining white male employees in favor of women and minority officers.
The lawsuit, submitted on May 19, names Police Chief Teresa Theetge and the City of Cincinnati as defendants, claiming that promotional and assignment decisions within the department have been tainted by race- and gender-based preferences. The plaintiffs—Captain Robert Wilson along with Lieutenants Patrick Caton, Gerald Hodges, and Andrew Mitchell—assert that these practices have damaged their careers, reputations, and emotional well-being.
Court filings reviewed by local media reveal allegations that Chief Theetge instituted a promotional system that prioritized diversity over merit, particularly regarding the coveted rank of lieutenant. The officers argue this system amounts to de facto quotas that systematically exclude qualified white male candidates.
“The city and Chief Theetge have implemented policies that favor certain groups based on race and gender, disadvantaging white male officers,” the suit declares.
Seeking redress, the plaintiffs are requesting monetary compensation for lost wages and emotional distress, as well as an injunction to stop what they describe as ongoing discriminatory practices. They have also called for a jury trial to resolve these claims.
Attorney Zack Gottesman, representing the officers, told WXIX News the case is symptomatic of a larger problem. “This is not a one-off occurrence,” Gottesman said. “There’s a clear pattern where race- and gender-based decision-making contradicts constitutional protections and longstanding legal precedents.”
This lawsuit adds to a series of legal challenges faced by the Cincinnati Police Department in recent years. Earlier this year, the city settled a discrimination claim for $95,000 from a white officer who alleged offensive remarks from colleagues and supervisors. Furthermore, a 2021 federal court ruling prohibited the department from employing race or gender quotas in hiring and promotions, citing constitutional violations.
Meanwhile, Chief Theetge, who has been under mounting public scrutiny, recently addressed criticism following a widely shared video of a downtown assault. The footage, showing a man being attacked while a female bystander was knocked unconscious, sparked intense debate over police response and public safety.
In response, Theetge cautioned against jumping to conclusions based on viral clips. “Social media often presents a fragmented picture,” she stated at a press briefing. “It can interfere with comprehensive investigations and effective law enforcement.”
Looking Ahead
The lawsuit by these former officers fuels ongoing debates about fairness and transparency in the Cincinnati Police Department. At stake is not only the integrity of promotional processes but also the broader issue of balancing diversity goals with equal opportunity principles in public service.
As the case unfolds in court, it may prompt renewed examination of department policies and their impact on morale, cohesion, and community trust.